Testimonials

Something unexpected is happening in churches across America—and Sioux City is no exception. After years of declining attendance narratives, Generation Z is reversing the trend. They're walking through church doors in increasing numbers, searching for something their screens cannot provide: …

There's a criticism that haunts outreach-focused churches: they water down the Gospel. They're soft on sin. They care more about attendance than orthodoxy. Pastor Chris Ver Steeg of Elevate Church has heard it all—and he has a pointed response that reveals what actually transforms lives. Speaking …

When most people think about homelessness in Sioux City, they imagine providing a warm bed and a hot meal. While these essentials matter, they represent only the surface of a much deeper crisis. The real challenge facing our community involves an interconnected web of addiction, affordable housing …

How spiritual warfare, identity transformation, and community create lasting freedom. At The Gospel Mission, staff wage daily spiritual warfare against dependencies that destroy lives. Unlike secular recovery programs treating addiction as merely medical, this Christian homeless shelter approaches …

I had an experience I don’t think anyone should have to experience. 4 years ago my daughter was a witness to a drug deal that turned into a murder, and I was sitting in a prison cell. I understood the true definition of powerlessness just then. That’s when I made a decision, a decision that was …

Justin came into our care with an addiction to alcohol and he has now remained sober for over 9 months. That is the longest he has gone without a drink since the alcohol addiction took over his life.   Justin began attending Elevate Church. One of the first times he attended, the pastor was …

My story actually started August 11, 2024. I was evicted from my apartment in Springfield, Missouri. My brother paid for an occasional hotel room, but I ended up on the streets with my dog. My church sent me up to Sioux City on a bus. That was a 27 hour bus ride. I made it up at here at 8am, my …

Homelessness is a complex issue. It would be nice if the issue could be easily understood and/or easily solved. The Gospel Mission’s approach resonates with me in so many ways. One key aspect the Mission provides is structure in a person’s life – lights out time, wake-up time, meal times, assigned …

Kayla lost her children, and has spent a lot of time fighting to get them back. Both of her girls were in the Foster Care system now, and things were not going as they should. She was located in Omaha, but relocated to Sioux City to be closer to her girls. She was living in a hotel during the whole …

Jerry was baptized Sunday April 14th at Central Baptist Church here in Sioux City, Iowa. We couldn't be prouder of him!! He says he feels more positive ever since his baptism. To him, baptism is a public declaration of your belief and love for Jesus Christ. Jerry enjoys going to his church …

Crystal was born in Cherokee, Iowa. Her family moved to Connecticut when she was a toddler. While there, The Salvation Army came to the complex to let them know of church services they were offering. Her and her 3 siblings began to attend church on a regular basis.   Quite a few years later …

Katrina was living "The American Dream". Her and her husband were in Georgia at the time, they had the beautiful home with a nice yard. A very LOVED dog named Emma Jean filled this house with so much fun! Katrina and her husband worked together at a hotel, she was the head of housekeeping, and he …

God Had Big Changes in Store for Donavon Donavon thought the rest of his life was set in place. He was married to a wonderful woman, his construction career was booming and his house in Kansas City was almost paid off. Then his wife passed away unexpectedly at home and everything changed. Unable to …

James was born in Atlanta, GA. But with his love & passion for music, he has moved to over 33 states in the last 300 days. He moved to Iowa for a relationship, which later turned toxic. He found himself at The Gospel Mission. He has lived at other missions he says, but none are like The Gospel …

In April, Crystal Carrillo-Ealy found her way to The Gospel Mission. Originally from Omaha, she came to Sioux City to take care of her sick aunt and uncle who were like parents to her. When her uncle passed away, she wanted to stay in the area to continue caring for her aunt. Crystal had been in …

Ken would tell you he came to The Gospel Mission in September 2021 by “accident.” He was driving through Sioux City when his truck broke down, and while waiting for it to be fixed, he was mugged and had to go to the hospital. After they stitched him up, an officer brought him to the Mission. “I …